The Nation’s Report Card shows how school systems across the United States are faring, and it doesn’t look well for most states. Minnesota’s 4th and 8th graders saw a decrease in math and reading scores – although these 4th and 8th graders scored higher than the national average, its still the lowest score seen in decades.
In 2022 8th graders averaged 280 on their mathematics test and 260 on their reading scores. In 2019 they scored 291 on math and 264 on reading – a decrease of 11 points on math and 4 points on reading.
The national average dropped 3 points for reading among both 4th and 8th graders, meaning that Minnesota’s loss in points were above the national average drop. In national math scores the average dropped 3 points among 4th graders and 8 points among 8th graders, meaning Minnesota once again fell below the national average drop.
Centennial Schools saw similar drops in Math scores but did see a dramatic increase in reading scores among their high school students. On the other hand Centennial School’s elementary saw a drop in both math and reading.
“If you compare centennial schools, they are comparable to the state, we’re above the national average but that’s not where we want to be,” said Mark Grossklaus, Executive Director of Learning and Teaching for Centennial School District 12. “We aren’t where we were in 2019 but are seeing a gradual improvement in scores.”
These lower grades can in part be blamed on the COVID-19 pandemic, students and teachers had to adjust to online learning and caused problems for students that need hands-on teaching.
“It’s hard to teach students behind a camera. Students need that hands-on opportunity to ask questions,” said Grossklaus. “We know students belong in the classroom, we have certified staff that are awesome that can really help students.”
You can find information on Centennial School’s here.
